Benjamin Ames Laning Jr.

Benjamin was born in Baltimore, Maryland and was a long-time resident of Nashville. A proud veteran, he served during World War II as a Captain B-24 pilot in the Army Air Corps. With 31 missions over Germany. After WWII, he worked for years in the aviation industry as a respected pilot for Federal Aviation Administration until his retirement in 1988.

Benjamin was an avid golfer and marksman, and passionate about the American right to bear arms. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was a devoted, loving husband, provider, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, comrade and friend and will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his 2 sons, Douglas M. Laning and Richard E. Laning; 7 grandchildren, Richard Jr., Kandi, Jonathan, Benjamin IV, Kristienne, Stephen and James; 6 great-grandchildren; brother, Douglas T. Laning of Madeira Beach, Florida.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Ernestine (Sue) and oldest son, Benjamin Ames Laning III.

A funeral service will be conducted 10 am Friday, January 9, 2014 with Brother Dexter Jones officiating. Burial will follow in the Hermitage Memorial Gardens. Visitation with the family will be Thursday from 4pm until 8pm and 1 hour prior to the service at the funeral home.